The Importance of Buying Existing Art Pieces: One Artist's Feelings on Commissions

In the world of art, there exists a unique bond between creator, the viewer, and the collector—a connection woven through creativity, passion, and the shared appreciation of beauty. As art enthusiasts, we often find ourselves faced with a choice: to commission a personalized piece or to embrace the existing treasures crafted by the artist's hand. While commissioned artwork holds its allure and the ideas one might have requires the help of an artist, there are compelling reasons why buying existing art pieces directly from the artist is equally, if not more, significant than asking an artist to create a custom piece for you. While every artist has their own feelings, attitudes, and guidelines in accepting commissions, here are 6 reasons why purchasing an existing piece of art from a living artists is better than requesting a commission from an artist:

1. A Glimpse into the Artist's Journey:

Every artist's portfolio represents a captivating visual narrative, a journey marked by exploration, growth, and artistic evolution. By purchasing existing artwork, you immerse yourself in the artist's story, witnessing the transformative stages and diverse expressions of their creativity. Each piece tells a tale, reflecting the artist's unique perspective, techniques, and artistic development.

2. Celebrating Artistic Authenticity:

Existing art pieces embody the true essence of the artist's vision and voice. They offer an unfiltered glimpse into their creative process, inspirations, and personal expression. By acquiring these artworks, you become a custodian of the artist's authentic voice, preserving and cherishing their artistic legacy.

3. Immediate Gratification:

When acquiring an existing art piece, the joy of ownership is instant. You can immediately embrace the artwork's beauty, allowing it to enrich your living space or serve as a source of inspiration. This immediate gratification connects you to the artist's intention, as their creation becomes an integral part of your everyday life.

4. Supporting Artists' Sustainability:

Artists rely on the support of collectors to sustain their creative pursuits. By purchasing existing art pieces, you contribute to an artist's livelihood and enable them to continue exploring their craft. Your investment not only provides financial support but also acts as a powerful validation of their talent and dedication without adding more work, commitment, and obligation into their life.

5. Diverse Selection and Discovery:

Artists often create a diverse range of artworks, exploring different themes, styles, and techniques. By buying existing art pieces, you gain access to a broader selection, allowing you to discover hidden gems that resonate with your personal taste. Embracing existing artworks encourages you to explore various artistic expressions and expand your appreciation for different genres.

6. Building a Meaningful Collection:

Collecting existing art pieces allows you to curate a collection that reflects your evolving artistic sensibilities. Each acquisition becomes a cherished part of your personal art journey, creating a cohesive and meaningful ensemble that speaks to your individual aesthetic preferences. A collection comprising diverse existing artworks offers a rich tapestry of artistic voices, elevating the significance of your art collection.

Conclusion:

In the vibrant tapestry of the art world, the choice between commissioned works and existing art pieces is a delightful conundrum. While commissioned art possesses its allure, embracing existing artworks is equally vital and less taxing on the artist themselves. By purchasing these pieces, you honor the artist's creative evolution, celebrate their authenticity, and support their sustainability without adding more “work” to the artist’s life. Furthermore, you nurture your personal connection with the artist, curate a meaningful collection, and revel in the immediate joy of owning a captivating creation to be admired for years to come.

Please considering supporting this Artist’s Journey by checking out my gallery here.

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!